“I am proud to have been given the opportunity to speak to Inter and evaluate this option,” the Norwegian striker told Sport.bt.no.

“The problem was not tied to the physical and athletic tests, but rather because I could not have been in top form straight away.

“That is what Inter were expecting, but I can’t be at my best before taking a while to gain match fitness. I didn’t come here to waste time and I won’t rule out returning to the pitch over the next few months.

“Right now, I am focusing on other projects.”

Inter still want an experienced forward who can fill in for the injured Diego Milito during the rest of the season.

He has to be out of contract, as the transfer window has closed, so there are precious few alternatives.

It is now reported the Nerazzurri are turning their attention towards Van Nistelrooy and preparing a 15-month contract for the Dutch veteran.

It would be another race against time for fitness, as the former Manchester United and Real Madrid hitman retired in May 2012 and will turn 37 in July.